Determined Simon Whitlock has vowed to come out all guns blazing when he faces darts’ greatest achiever on Thursday night.
The popular Australian is involved in one of the matches of the night in the third round of Premier League Darts action at
Bournemouth when he takes on 16-time world champion Phil Taylor.
Whitlock has made a steady start to the Premier League, defeating Adrian Lewis in the opening week before being edged out by Gary Anderson in Aberdeen.
The clash with Taylor represents a mouthwatering prospect and has got Waterlooville-based Whitlock’s pulse racing.
“It’s always exciting when you play Phil, especially on a huge stage like the Premier League,” said Whitlock.
“Phil provides a massive challenge for every player and you know what you have to do – score consistently heavy and take your chances when they come along.
“I was disappointed to lose to Gary last week, especially after starting the game so well.
Credit to Gary for the way he played in the middle of the game but that’s behind menow and I’m looking forward to Bournemouth.
“Compared to the other venues, Bournemouth is quite local to where I live so hopefully the fans will get behind me and I can’t wait to get started.”
Thursday’s clash represents a repeat of the 2010 World Championship final and last season’s Premier League Darts final.
Taylor won both clashes, but Whitlock believes he can turn the tables this time.
“Despite the defeat last week, I’m feeling confident about my game at the moment,” he added.
“I’m finishing well and if I can just improve my scoring power slightly, I’m sure the wins will come.
“There is a massive intensity about every game in the Premier League and you have to be at your best to get the right result, but I’m loving every minute of it.”
Image courtesy of Lawrence Lustig/PDC – Copy courtesy of Leyland Paints